Thursday, 16 October 2014

Week 6...

This week was focused primarily on working on the group presentation for Unit 1. Within our group of three we had previously agreed to divide the assessment criteria up equally between us. I will be presenting assessment criteria 1.4 (Explain why it is so important to identify and meet individual learner needs), 2.1 (Explain ways to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment) and 2.2 (Explain why it is important to promote appropriate behaviour and respect for others).

Already I am beginning to think of experiences from my work which I will be able to use to illustrate the points I will be making. I like this part of the course, as it is requiring me to reflect on my career as a trainer and be analytical about my experiences. I do feel that reflection allows a teacher to consider ways to improve the learning experience, and anything that encourages me to be more conscious of my work can only be a good thing.

That said, I am not entirely convinced about the method of presentation or this unit. Certainly, being able to stand in front of the group and deliver the presentation provides invaluable experience, particularly for those in the group who have not had such experience before for whom such an activity could be challenging. However, we have been instructed that the powerpoint part of the presentation should avoid bullet points and rather be written in a more long-form style. In my area of work, extensive presentations are often referred to as "death by powerpoint" as such a dry method of teaching usually means that learners switch off. Having a visual cue can be helpful, but surely a written report (much like that required for the microteach) would be more effective? Further, would I not be required to demonstrate that I have understood the other assessment criteria as well, or is it assumed that as a group we have shared the development of the presentation?

More questions than answers at this point.

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